Bill Hicks Died 20 Years Ago Today

Today is the anniversary of the passing of a great American wordsmith. On this day, February 26th, 20 years ago in 1994, the world lost the great Bill Hicks. Twenty years gone. But not forgotten, and his voice is stronger and louder than ever. Amazingly relevant despite being dead for two decades. Let me explain.

I accidentally discovered Bill Hicks back in 1993. I had gotten home really late after having been out partying with some friends. I had a slight buzz and was feeling good, so I got into bed at around 2:00am and I turned on the tv and began flipping through the channels.

That’s when I noticed an HBO or Showtime comedy special, which was about to start. I figured a little bit of comedy as I drifted into sleep would be a nice way to end what had been a fun evening. I had no idea the magnitude of what was about to happen to me. What happened next has stayed with me throughout the entirety of my life.

Bill Hicks Changed My Life

What I was treated to, of course, was the now well-known Bill Hicks comedy special, called “Revelations”. Within 10 minutes, I was hooked on Bill Hicks! He had instantly become my new hero. The addiction has lasted throughout my life up to this point in time.

Ever since that night in 1993, I have made it one of my missions in life to continue to spread the Word of Bill, hence this missive. Bill was a truth teller of the highest magnitude. Scathing social commentary, delivered mercilessly. However Bill had a way of making his often ugly subject matter very funny. And insightful. And delivering it in a way that it made it stick with you so you could never forget. His words and observations had the power to get you looking at life a little bit differently.

Bill Hicks on Banality and Mediocrity

Bill on Advertising and Marketing

Bill Hicks, Evil Ex-girlfriend Fantasy

Full versions of Bill Hicks Stand Up Shows here:

Sane Man is my all time favorite. Filmed in 1989 at the Laff Stop in Austin Texas. Bill was only 27 years old, and at the top of his game. And freshly sober, too. An amazing piece of work. Bill was an extraordinary guy.

Bill Hicks has always been my guiding light. He was before he passed, and he has been ever since. Thank you for yet another fine tribute to a largely unsung American hero. Wow. 20 years gone already. Amazing. And yet, I still hear Bill, loud and clear. And for that, I am thankful!